With its masked balls, extravagant costumes and colourful parades, the Venice carnival is famous throughout the world. But across Europe, less-known events offer just as much fun for visitors, with their own celebrations and traditions bringing the streets to life. We’d love to hear about alternative carnivals you’ve experienced on your travels – tell us where it was and why it was great for the chance to win a Coolstays voucher.

If you have a relevant photo, do send it in – but it’s your words that will be judged for the competition.

Keep your tip to about 100 words

The best tip of the week, chosen by Tom Hall of Lonely Planet, will win a £200 voucher to stay at a Coolstays property – the company has more than 3,000 worldwide. The best tips will appear in the Guardian Travel section and website.

We’re sorry, but for legal reasons you must be a UK resident to enter this competition.

The competition closes on 13 January 2025 at 9am

Have a look at our past winners and other tips

Read the terms and conditions here